A Raisin in The Sun: The Mystery of The Stolen Money

Who stole the money? This question lingers in the minds of the Younger family throughout Lorraine Hansberry's play, A Raisin In The Sun. The theft of the money becomes a central point of conflict and distrust among the characters, revealing the fragile nature of trust within a family. Through the exploration of this theme, Hansberry provides insight into the consequences of broken trust and the potential for redemption. This essay will analyze the different perspectives on trust in A Raisin In The Sun, examining how the stolen money serves as a catalyst for personal growth and the transformation of relationships.

At the beginning of the play, the Younger family is awaiting the arrival of a $10,000 insurance check following the death of Walter Sr. Each family member has their own dreams and aspirations for the money, but the central conflict arises when the money mysteriously disappears. The audience is left wondering, who stole the money?

One possible suspect is Walter Lee Younger, the eldest son of the family. Walter's frustration with his life and his desire for financial success make him a likely candidate for the theft. Hansberry subtly plants the idea of Walter's involvement through his extravagant spending and his erratic behavior after the money goes missing. For instance, when Walter's wife, Ruth, asks him about the money, he becomes defensive and evasive. These actions not only raise suspicion but also contribute to the overall tension within the family.

The theft of the money has significant implications for the Younger family. It exposes the underlying issues of mistrust and lack of communication that have been festering beneath the surface. As the family members confront one another, their relationships are strained, and trust is shattered.

For Mama, the matriarch of the family, the stolen money represents a betrayal of her trust in her children. She had hoped that the money would provide a better future for her family, but instead, it becomes a symbol of disappointment and broken dreams. Mama's faith in her children is tested, and she must grapple with the consequences of their actions.

Similarly, Walter's relationship with his wife, Ruth, is severely affected by the theft. The lack of trust between them leads to a breakdown in communication and emotional distance. Ruth begins to question Walter's loyalty and integrity, and their marriage hangs in the balance. The stolen money becomes a catalyst for their personal growth, forcing them to confront their own flaws and work towards reconciliation.

While the theft of the money initially creates turmoil within the Younger family, it also offers an opportunity for redemption. As the characters confront the consequences of their actions, they begin to rebuild trust and find a way forward.

One example of this redemption is seen in Walter's character. Initially consumed by his own desires, Walter realizes the importance of family and the damage caused by his actions. Through his journey, Walter learns the value of trust and the need for open communication. By the end of the play, he takes responsibility for his mistakes and seeks a path towards redemption.

Furthermore, the theft of the money allows the Younger family to reevaluate their priorities and come together as a unit. The adversity they face strengthens their bond, and they learn to rely on one another for support. The stolen money becomes a catalyst for growth and transformation, ultimately leading to a greater sense of trust and unity within the family.

The mystery of the stolen money in A Raisin In The Sun serves as a powerful symbol of broken trust and its consequences. Through the examination of the different perspectives on trust within the Younger family, Lorraine Hansberry highlights the fragility of familial bonds and the potential for redemption. The theft of the money becomes a catalyst for personal growth and the transformation of relationships, ultimately leading to a greater sense of trust and unity. As the characters grapple with the question, "Who stole the money?", they embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn the value of trust and communication.

In conclusion, A Raisin In The Sun reminds us of the importance of trust within a family and the potential for redemption, even in the face of betrayal. By exploring the consequences of broken trust, Hansberry offers valuable insights into the complexities of human relationships and the power of forgiveness. The stolen money may have caused initial discord, but it ultimately becomes a catalyst for growth and unity within the Younger family.

Bibliography

Hansberry, Lorraine. A Raisin In The Sun. Vintage Books, 1994.